Women Today

During the month of February, Agnesian HealthCare will be sponsoring activities to promote awareness of heart disease as the number one death cause in women. Since heart disease can be prevented, Agnesian HealthCare will attempt to teach women about the life-threatning disease and help women learn how to save their lives.

Agnesian HealthCare has deemed Friday, Feb. 5 the day to wear red. Employees, providers and volunteers will be wearing red to increase awareness of heart disease and they encourage the public to partake as well.

Agnesian HealthCare will also be providing information on heart disease at all of its retail locations during the month of February. You can make donations at all of Agnesian's retail pharmacies, the St. Agnes Hospital Gift Shop and the Agnesian Health Shoppe.

Agnesian Health Care is also offering free blood lipid panel analysis from Feb. 8 to 12 at the following Consultants Laboratory outpatient facilities: 430 E. Division St. Fon du Lac, or 608 W. Brown St., Waupan. You must call to schedule an appointment at (920) 926-4963.

On Thursday, Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. a heart healthy cooking class will be offered at Journeys, a health resource center, 430 E. Division St.

For more information, visit the Agnesian HealthCare website at www.agnesian.com under the Dale Michesl Center for Heart Care section.

The latest issue of Women magazine is out and features "Good Day Wisconsin" anchor Rachel Manek.

Manek talks about how her family is fighting the battle against heart disease, and how she's running for her heart:

By the time she crossed the finish line, Rachel Manek was sobbing.
It had been stressful thinking about the Chicago Triathlon, getting to the downtown course and navigating the crowd of thousands. Stress turned to a joyful sense of accomplishment, however, as she ran those final steps.
“I said, ‘I have to do this again. This is awesome,’” she recalls.
Triathlons offer Manek more than a chance to compete in a sporting event. They also help the Channel 11 morning show anchor win another battle: the fight against her family’s history of heart disease.
Making time for exercise
Two weeks before Manek started a reporting job with FOX 11 in Green Bay, her father died of a heart attack. She recognizes some of the lifestyle factors that contributed (smoking, not exercising and long hours at a stressful job) and is doing her best to keep her life on a heart-healthy course.
“I try to stay active,” she says. “We love to eat so we counter that by staying active. I don’t smoke, never have, and I’m probably more active now than I was in my 20s.”
Manek, who pulls an early morning broadcasting shift as an anchor of “Good Day Wisconsin,” squeezes in up to an hour of exercise after her work day ends at noon and before she picks up her 1-year-old daughter.
She says she’s “not a super worker-outer,” but finds more time for exercise when she’s gearing up for a triathlon. She competes in the sprint event, which involves a 750 meter swim, 20 kilometer bike ride and 5 kilometer run.

For more, pick up a copy of Women magazine at area Tom's Drive-Ins, McDonald's Restaurants or Festival Food stores.

Women magazine's Women Who Inspire feature hopes to honor the work of actors and their passions for the arts. Today we feature Miki Wise:

Miki Wise
Chilton
Teacher in Kiel

What made you get into acting? Dance. I was an aspiring young dancer, from a dance company in Racine, when I moved to Appleton.
There were not many performance opportunities for dancers there and I wanted to find an outlet for my passion for dancing. I got involved in community theatre, first as a choreographer and costumer. Then I began to perform in the chorus, which led to great leading roles in musicals.

What was your most recent role? "Lola" in Damn Yankees

Is it tough to be an actress in Northeast Wisconsin? Yes, the competition has been increasing for ladies since I became involved in community theatre in the Fox Valley.
The men have it "easy" because there are more great roles available and fewer guys auditioning for those roles.
Age is definitely a factor in casting as well. I am in the age group where lead role opportunities are dropping off for me.
I am fortunate to be a trained dancer. It helps me get roles that others don't qualify for because of the dance demands.
Men are able to play romantic lead roles for years longer than we ladies are. I think it's pretty much the same thing here as in Hollywood, in that way.

What is your goal? I have a wish list of "dream roles" that I hope to play before I am deemed “over the hill.”
I have been very fortunate to play most of those characters, but I have a few more to tackle before I play Ethel in “On Golden Pond.”
Hopefully, area theatre groups will produce the shows I wish for before I'm too old.

Women magazine's Women Who Inspire feature reminds us all of the exciting acting opportunities available in this community. Today we feature: Kristin Wegner:

Kristin Wegner
Menasha
Day job: Elementary school counselor in New Holstein.

What made you get into acting? I started acting when I was 9 years old.
My mom encouraged me to audition for a kid's part in the musical our high school was doing. I got a part and loved the experience and I have been involved in theatre ever since.

What was your most recent role? This past summer I was in Attic's "Screams from the Attic" and I played Rip Van Winkle's wife, who is described as “sharp-tongued.”
It was really fun because I got to be really mean and yell a lot.
My husband said I was typecast and I think I scared my on-stage husband just a little.

What has been your most exciting acting experience? When Attic Theatre did "Tony and Tina's Wedding" about seven or eight years ago.
I primarily do musical theatre and am more comfortable singing than acting. This show not only required that I act, but that I improvise, something I had never done before. The cast spent a lot of time together doing improvisational activities and developing our characters. We even went bowling together in character.
We were really comfortable with each other and had a lot of fun which I think made a great audience experience for everyone.

What is your goal? My goal as an actress is to just have fun. I participate because I have a great time and I get to spend time with my friends doing something I love to do.

Gina Nytes, Kaukauna branch manager for Citizens Bank, brings us this week's financial tip:

Are you looking for some practical tips for simple every day saving? Well, look no further.
• I am sure the saying, “out of sight, out of mind” rings a bell. But have you ever considered that when it comes to money, out of sight suggests in a savings account at your bank and in sight generally means in your wallet? Help yourself by keeping your money out of sight by signing up for an automatic savings plan so that your money is automatically moved from your paycheck to a savings account.
• When it comes to entertainment, be thrifty. Keep in mind that having a good time with family and friends doesn’t mean that you have to spend a lot of money. Instead of going to a pricy restaurant for dinner, consider hosting a pot luck or a backyard cook out. If you’re looking to go to a movie, skip the concession stand or go to the second run theatres.
• Continue to pay off debts until they are paid off and beyond. Many of us have monthly loan payments, whether it is for a car loan, student loan or mortgage. When you’ve finally paid off a loan, consider keeping up with your payments but to yourself by depositing the money into your savings account.
• Know where your money goes. Keep track of all of your spending by writing down all of your purchases for a week to see where every dollar is going. Then evaluate your spending habits and determine where you can spend less and ultimately save more.
• Pay your bills as soon as they arrive in the mail. You may dread when your mail is filled with bills but, instead of putting them aside and waiting to send in a payment until later, consider writing out a check right away. Even if you can’t pay the entire balance, whenever possible pay more than the minimum amount due.

Women magazine hopes to inform the public about the exciting acting opportunities the area has to offer. Through its Women Who Inspire feature, local actors have been able to share their stories. Today we feature Angela Ramey:

Angela Ramey
Appleton

What made you get into acting? My mother was determined to have me (and my brother) involved in something.
After trying (and quitting) every sport and instrument available in my town, I auditioned for the summer rec department's production of “Annie.” I was in fourth grade I think and I got up on stage and sang "The Garden Song" (..."Inch by inch, row by row, gonna make this garden grow...") a cappella.
I can only imagine how I sounded. But I got cast! And it stuck.
Theatre and performance has been a constant in my life ever since. I felt very comfortable on stage, and still do.

What was your most recent role? I played various roles in UW-Fox’s Drama Club production of "The Laramie Project" this past month.

What has been your most exciting acting experience? Every experience lends some sort of excitement. A recent highlight would be performing "The Woman Who Liked to Make Vaginas Happy" monologue in “The Vagina Monologues” while six months pregnant. That was a trip.

What advice do you have for aspiring actors? Don't be afraid to make a fool out of yourself. Have fun, take chances.
You'll usually find the magic in between the mistakes. So make them. Make a lot of them.
Also, be respectful of everyone involved in the production. Be humble.

Is it tough to be an actress in Northeast Wisconsin? I have lived in Appleton for four years and was pleasantly surprised by the amount of opportunity there is here.
I would say that we need more variety if anything, but in general I am pleased that there are options.
I think we'll see even more avenues for expression in the future. We have so many creative minds here ready to try new things. I'm excited for what's on the horizon.

What is your goal? My goal is to stay active in the arts. To keep growing, learning and trying new things, and to inspire others to broaden their horizons.

The Women Who Inspire feature examines the ways acting has become a part of many local women's lives. Today we feature Laurie Friedman Fannin:

Laurie Friedman Fannin
Hortonville
Day job: Works at Neenah high school with teens who have learning disabilities

What made you get into acting? It is a chromosomal defect. I couldn't NOT act. It is part of who I am.

What was your most recent role? I will be playing one of the leads in UW-Fox's production of "Doubt" in February.

What has been your most exciting acting experience? Understudying Mercedes McCambridge and playing opposite John Carradine. Locally, anytime I have been directed by Susan Rabideau or shared the stage with Mark Zastrow.

If you could change one thing about acting, what would it be? I would get paid for it so I wouldn't have to "work" for a living.

Where do you hope to be in 10 years? At my age, you don't think that far ahead.

The Women Who Inspire feature allows area actors to encourage and promote others within the area to engage in the 'thriving arts scene.' Today we feature Amy Riemer:

Amy Riemer
Lives in Brillion, performs in Green Bay
Works with Let Me Be Frank Productions

What made you get into acting? I've been performing since I was a little girl. I've always loved it; I can't think of a time when I didn't want to be on stage.

What was your most recent role? I played a Southern girl who is a member of a singing group called "The Adequates" in our Christmas show this year.

What has been your most exciting acting experience? I was asked to be a small role in a short independent film called "The Bus Driver.”
It was very exciting and nerve-racking. I'd never done anything like that before and, even though I only had a few lines, I've never been more nervous.
Everyone involved was so positive and patient. All in all it was a great experience and a lot fun.

If you could change one thing about acting, what would it be? I think it's changing already, but I'd still like weight and size to not be such an important factor, especially for women.
I think it sends the wrong image to young people. The focus should be on being healthy.

What advice do you have for aspiring actors? Take every positive opportunity you can. Try things you may not think you can do, or have never done before. That's how you learn and grow as a performer.
If your instincts tell you that something really just isn't a good fit, however, go with your feelings.

Is it tough to be an actress in Northeast Wisconsin? I am so blessed! I think I have one of the best gigs around with Let Me Be Frank Productions, which is year-round steady work for me.
I am also the troupe vocal coach, so I'm involved with picking music and preparing for new shows before we start rehearsals.

Where do you hope to be in 10 years? Right here in Northeast Wisconsin.
This is where my heart is; my family, my friends. I get to sing, dance and act with amazingly talented people, and I have a great place to raise my son, Darien.
I believe that the arts in general are often underestimated in Green Bay and the Fox Valley. I know so many immensely talented musicians, dancers and artists.
We have a thriving arts scene here, and I'm proud to be a part of it.

What is your goal? I hope to contribute positively to my community through charitable acts, teaching, being a positive role model, and also simply raising the spirits of those who see me perform.

Late last month, firefighter Steven “Peanut” Koeser lost his life while responding to a fire call at Bremer Manufacturing Company in St. Anna on the western edge of Calumet County.

Firefighters from around the area and throughout Wisconsin have come together to support the St. Anna Fire Department and Koeser’s family. In addition, funds were collected to establish a memorial in honor of Koeser.

In memory of Koeser, a nearly-life-sized bronze statue of a firefighter in full gear will sit in front of St. Anna Catholic Church. Heavy Critters, a concrete statuary company out of Oshkosh, made an undisclosed donation toward this tribute. Heavy Critters has been working with firefighters throughout the Wisconsin community in order to design this statue in tribute of Koeser.

Our friends at Unity Hospice share a message about pressure:

The pace of the world today is more hectic than ever before. Aside from long lists of tasks and errands, job pressures and the like, one thing remains the same regardless of the pace of the rest of the world: people need other people to help care for them as they age or experience serious illness.

According to AgingCare, a website and online forum for family caregivers, an estimated 34 million people in the U.S. care for other family members, with 3 out of 5 caregivers working outside of the home.

The role of caregiver naturally causes the caregiver to act with someone else’s health and happiness in mind.

Caregiving may take a toll on many aspects of a caregiver’s life. Financially, many caregivers do not have a plan as to how they will pay for the cost of caring for a family member and how this may then impact their own financial future.

Emotionally, a strong sense of responsibility for another person’s well-being and the possible guilt for feelings of “not doing enough” weigh heavily and can often result in depression. Physically, caregivers impact their ability and availability to care for someone else if they do not take care of themselves.

While this depiction of the role of caregivers and the potential impact on caregivers may seem bleak and stressful, caregivers can and do receive immense satisfaction from caring for their family members. The key to caring for someone else is for caregivers to remember to take care of themselves.

Friends, neighbors and other family members of a caregiver may consider lending a hand by offering to companion-sit with the person they are assisting, run errands, make a meal or do light housekeeping. The respite provided to the caregiver by giving much-needed time away will help brighten their day and make the person helping feel good in the process.

Unity provides comfort care to people of all ages throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Whether at a private home, nursing home or assisted living facility, Unity’s skilled team of nurses, physicians, social workers, nursing assistants, chaplains, volunteers and grief counselors ensure the best quality of life for both the patient and family, based on the individual’s needs and wishes.

A not-for-profit health care provider, Unity is dedicated to ensuring that all individuals and the communities in which they reside have access to education, support and quality holistic care.

Women magazine hopes to honor area actors and their perseverance in the acting business through its Women Who Inspire feature. Today we present Emily Terrell Paulsen:

Emily Terrell Paulsen
Green Bay
Works with Let Me Be Frank Productions

What made you get into acting? I come from a very musical family. My parents began as music majors in college.
I was exposed to a lot of theatre; my mother founded a theatre troupe at our church when I was about 12. That is where I first began acting and singing.
Eventually I began to study acting in college as a musical theatre major. I have been in a variety of productions ranging from full length ballets and operas to musicals, plays and rock bands.

What has been your most exciting acting experience? In summer 2007 I played the title role in the St. Norbert College Summer Music Theatre’s production of “Evita.” The role was both challenging and rewarding.
In fall 2007 I was nominated for the Irene Ryan Acting award for my portrayal of Penelope Pennywise in “Urinetown” at UW-Green Bay and competed regionally in the American College Theatre Festival.

What advice do you have for aspiring actors? If you love it, pursue it. Study the craft; watch good actors and have confidence in your abilities. Look for opportunities to perform and take any that come your way.

Is it tough to be an actress in Northeast Wisconsin? It is and it isn’t. There are a lot of opportunities to perform; you just need to watch for them.
As far as stage acting, the only down side is that there are very few opportunities to get paid for your work. I am lucky to be working with Let Me Be Frank Productions.

The Women Who Inspire feature not only emphasizes the struggles and triumphs of actors in the area, it also highlights the ways they encourage all of us. Today we present Jennifer Koroll:

Jennifer Koroll
Appleton
Day job: Owner of the Déjà Vu Martini Lounge

What made you get into acting? I’ve always loved making people laugh and secretly dreamed of being a performer.
I saw an audition notice for one of my favorite shows, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” and mentioned how fun it would be to be part of that production. My husband really encouraged me to audition, despite having a black eye and being on crutches at the time due to a recent accident.
I hobbled into the audition and was cast in the role of Columbia. Who knew I could actually do this?!

What was your most recent role? Roxie Hart in “Chicago.” I had so much fun on stage dancing and singing to all those great numbers.
I was able to put a little bit of myself into that role, as the character herself is trying to become a performer.
As a theatre newbie I could relate to Roxie on a personal level.

Do you have a job outside of acting? My husband and I own Déjà Vu Martini Lounge in downtown Appleton. For some reason, most cast parties end up there, I think it’s because I know the owner (wink, wink).

What advice do you have for aspiring actors? Audition! There is always a fear of rejection but just understand that the director wants you to be perfect for the role and he/she isn’t judging you personally.
If I didn’t audition for that first role, I would still be wondering “what if?” If I can audition with crutches and a black eye for a musical, anyone can!

Women magazine's Women Who Inspire feature examines the ways acting impacts local women's lives. Today we feature Mary Kohlbeck:

Mary Kohlbeck
Oshkosh

What made you get into acting? I wanted to act in high school and college. I went to a tryout or two but never had the courage to read for a part.
It wasn’t until my late 20s, when I had moved to a new city, that I finally had the courage to read for a community production of “Happy Birthday, Wanda June.”
I loved the warmth of that spotlight and wanted to do it again and again.

What has been your most exciting acting experience? Every production I have been in has been my most exciting acting experience.
When the lights go down and the curtain goes up, and you know as an actor that this is the moment, and nothing other than intermission or an actual death on stage will stop the production until the last line is spoken. This other world of the play has begun.
An actor moves through two realities, her own and that of her character. Will lines be dropped or, even worse, a section of the play, possibly paralyzing other actors? Will the door on the set close properly this time?
Will the sound cue be heard by all? Will I be in character enough to be spontaneous and rescue another actor who may become temporarily lost?
Will my shoe fall off, will I drop a prop, will I forget my blocking? All are possibilities.
That excitement, that tension, that energy is theatre and is why each performance is my most exciting acting experience.

If you could change one thing about acting, what would it be? The need for memorization. The theatrical experience I currently enjoy is play readings.
Actors are seated on stools with scripts placed on music stands in front of them. Rehearsals are held with the emphasis on the delivery and interpretation, just as in a full production.
The script is not read, some actors have it memorized, but you have that parachute right in front of you. The panic is removed and the fun is multiplied.

Women magazine draws attention to the hard work of area actors through its Women Who Inspire feature. Today we feature Nancy M. Ernst:

Nancy M. Ernst
Neenah
Retired teacher; teaches part-time at UW-Fox Valley

What made you get into acting? My high school drama teacher encouraged me to pursue acting and teaching.
I was cast in the UW Summer Repertory Company production of “Fashion.” I was bitten.

What was your most recent role? I played Cookie in Neil Simon's “Rumors” for Attic Theatre in Appleton.

What has been your most exciting acting experience? My favorite role was Kate in “Dancing at Lughnasa” for Attic Theatre.

What advice do you have for aspiring actors? Gain experience by auditioning, performing in studio projects, scene study and observing others' performances.

Do you have a job outside of acting? I taught speech, English and drama at Neenah High School for 33 years.
I retired from high school teaching in 2007 and began teaching introduction to theatre and public speaking part-time at UW Fox Valley. I also serve on the Attic Theatre's Board of Directors.

Gina Nytes, Kaukauna branch manager for Citizens Bank, brings us this week's financial tip:

Are you looking to achieve a savings goal? Do you have a workable savings plan set to help you achieve the savings goal? If not, here are some tips to help you take the necessary steps towards attaining your goal.

• The first step to getting your savings on track is to know where your money is going. Make a budget by listing all of your monthly expenses, then deduct the total from your monthly income. If you have money left over, you could be saving more. If there’s nothing left over, review your list to determine where you might cut expenses.

• Next, if you haven’t already, you might want to add the category "savings plan" to your list of budget items and write down the amount you can put away each month. Putting the amount in writing can help you achieve two important results: First, you’ll start thinking of "saving for the future" as an important financial obligation. Second, you’ll feel more committed to following through on your savings budget.

• Even though it’s human nature to spend what we earn, it’s important to remember to spend less than you earn. You can maximize your contributions to your savings plan by having a certain amount of money taken out of your paycheck before you’re tempted to spend the money on non-essentials.

• If you’re like most people, saving for tomorrow means you have to give up something you want today — a new car, a new wardrobe, a new flat screen TV. Giving up the things you want is hard to do, but it can benefit you in the long run. The next time you find yourself admiring something you’ve "just gotta have" ask yourself, "What am I giving up in my savings plan if I buy this?" Take the time to think about purchases and differentiating between needs and wants.

• Finally, if at the end of the day you find yourself needing additional assistance, seek help from your banker or financial advisor. They can help you establish a clear savings goal, help you decide how much to contribute to the savings plan and provide you with the guidelines for choosing an investment mix that’s right for your personal situation.

These tips are a great place to help you begin your savings plan. Through motivation, dedication and evaluation of your progress, you will quickly start seeing your savings account grow.

Women magazine focuses on the efforts put forth by actors in the area through its Women Who Inspire feature. Today we feature Nicolette Sims:

Nicolette Sims
Menasha
Day job: Student at UW-Fox Valley

What made you get into acting? My dad always told me to spread my wings and get out of doing sports, so I tried theatre and fell in love with it.
Now it’s my college major.

What has been your most exciting acting experience? My first performance as a college student, in “Metamorphoses.”
Acting in a pool and having to restage everything with water was a challenge I enjoyed, as well as having to add a show because we were sold out.

Where do you hope to be in 10 years? I hope to have a stable career and life in general.
If I push my self hard enough I would like to have at least one movie on the silver screen and possibly be an award-winning actress!
I will continue to act in theatre and travel the world, possibly directing stage performances.

Is it difficult to be an actress in Northeast Wisconsin? I don’t think so. There are plenty of opportunities in the community, such as the UW-Fox Valley theatre program and the Riverside Players.
If an actor wants to be on Broadway or the silver screen it may be more difficult coming from a smaller area, but it makes you work twice as hard to reach your goals.

Women magazine portrays area actors and their continuous growth and love for the art of acting in its Women Who Inspire feature. Today we feature Amanda Petersen-Fails:

Amanda Petersen-Fails
Menasha
Day job: Customer care advocate at School Specialty, Greenville

What made you get into acting? My cousins, my sister and I used to force our parents to watch our amateur theatricals from a very young age.
These included such gems as "Gone with the Wind, Part Two" and "1495 Dracula Drive," which we wrote, directed, staged, and, of course, starred in.
Our house was very loud and musical and it was just the natural progression of things. Through high school and community theatre, I was encouraged to go to UW-Stevens Point where I received my bachelor’s of fine arts degree in musical theatre.

What was your most recent role? In February 2009, I was in “The Vagina Monologues” at UW-Fox Valley and I did the "Little Coochie-Snorcher That Could" monologue. Before that, I was Rita Ravitch in Attic's “Suburb” in summer 2008.

What has been your most exciting acting experience? Each experience has its exciting moments.
I grew the most when I was in “Julius Caesar” at UW-Stevens Point. Learning to perform Shakespeare was grueling, but incredibly rewarding.
Another exciting experience was performing the role of Perchance Talbot in “The Spitfire Grill” with Attic Theatre.
That was the first show I did outside of my high school theatre group. Just being cast in the first place was exciting, but then to be able to perform with such a talented cast and crew, and a wonderful director and production team, was truly a thrill.

If you could change one thing about acting, what would it be? The fine arts in general deserve more public funding. The arts in school are sadly underfunded.
In terms of acting, from a professional standpoint, I think that it's unfortunate that it seems to be more and more about who you know rather than your talent and ambition.

What advice do you have for aspiring actors? Take every kind of lesson you possibly can, as soon as you can, for as long as you can: dance, speech, voice, movement, tumbling, stage combat... because everything is useful on stage.

Is it tough to be an actress in Northeast Wisconsin? It definitely has its pros and cons. It is difficult because there is an incredibly limited amount of professional theatre in the area. However, the warmth and friendship that develops in local community theatre groups is definitely a significant pro.
Also, in a smaller community, actors and actresses are often able to play roles that they might not have the chance to play in a bigger city.

Where do you hope to be in 10 years? My husband and I are planning to move to Chicago within the next year.
I have a lot of friends and contacts involved in theatre there, so I hope to establish myself well enough to be able to pursue acting as a career rather than as an after-work activity.
Depending upon how successful our time in Chicago is, I would eventually like to move to New York City.

What is your goal? I hope to go back to school and pursue a master’s of fine arts degree.
I would eventually like to teach, either at the high school or college level, and direct.

Women magazine promotes women in the area who enjoy acting through the Women Who Inspire feature. Today we present Christina LaVicka:

Christina LaVicka
Appleton
Day job: Substitute teacher

What made you get into acting? It wasn’t a conscience decision. My mom used to write and perform in all the puppet shows at church.
We grew up without a TV so Mom read to us five kids and put books on tape. Those recordings are gone but I can hear, clearly, how she portrayed each character and brought it to life. She is an incredibly gifted storyteller.
But it was Ken Anderson (former professor/theater director at UW-Fox Valley) who planted the seed that I could take my recreational acting further. Decades ago I had a small part in “Man of La Mancha” and Ken took time to write me a note about my reaction to a death scene and how believable it was.
I didn’t think he’d even noticed me way in back. I still have that note.
Over the years Ken cultivated my acting skills by offering me leading roles in productions such as “Kiss me Kate,” “Red, Hot and Cole,” and “Damn Yankees.” Every night he’d say to the cast, “Tell this story better than it’s ever been told.”
It was an incredible experience being able to perform with my mom in two of Ken’s shows. Mom and Ken worked with agencies and it became one of those “If they can do it so can I” sort of things.

What was your most recent role? Within the last two weeks I’ve worked on different videos in the medical field. As a nurse I had to memorize paragraphs of technical material and also do voiceover work.
As a patient I had it easy; my job was to react as a real doctor asked me questions and checked my vitals.
My most recent theatrical performance was for Attic Theater this past summer in “House of Blue Leaves.” It was nice going back to the place where I took on one of my favorite roles, as Tina in “Tony and Tina’s Wedding.”

What has been your most exciting acting experience? No adrenaline rush compares to performing for a live audience.
At any moment you or someone else could forget a line and have to improvise, or someone might add a new line, bizarre facial reaction, off-the-wall line delivery or crazy body movement to be creative; no matter how funny you think it is you have to stay focused and deliver your lines accordingly so the show doesn’t fall apart.
Later, at the cast party, you can deal with the clown who tried to mess with you.
Another experience I would categorize as “interesting” rather than “exciting” is having friends from out of state call to say they saw me on TV. Having strangers come up to me because they recognize me from TV or print is something else.
However, I’d rather people come talk with me as opposed to just staring; I might think I have something stuck in my teeth if I’m being gawked at.
The project that has generated the most recognition has been the “Chad Vader” series. Receiving fan mail from all over the world and having my picture on two DVDs has been a bit overwhelming at times.
“Good Morning America” debuted one of the episodes and George Lucas gave the creators Matt Sloan and Aaron Yonda an award for “Chad Vader.” The DVDs are sold internationally.
To be a part of something that is recognized on a global level is exciting indeed.
A slightly embarrassing acting experience I had was with my son, Austin. He’s actually been acting since before he was born, as I modeled ultrasound machines for a magazine.
More recently, Austin and I were in a shot with Brett Favre for Rayovac. Austin made Brett laugh when we were talking about divas. I said, “Austin, do you even know what a diva is?” “Yes,” said Austin very deadpan, “You, Mom.” I guess the old adage will never die.

What advice do you have for aspiring actors? If you are new to acting, go online to find monologues. Memorize one or two you like and perform for friends and family members. Get feedback and try out for community theater. Can you accept constructive criticism without getting defensive? You have to be thick skinned to be an actor.
You must trust your director (whether it’s live theater or a TV commercial) and not argue. Don’t say no to a part because it’s not the one you wanted. Trust that you were chosen for that role for a reason.
Go to live theater, read the paper for opportunities and contact directors asking them to keep you in mind for future performances. You are in the driver’s seat; take control.
After going to the Wildwood Film Festival I sent Blame Society Productions my resume because their movie made me laugh. As fate would have it, their casting director, Courtney Collins, was looking for a Clarissa in their next film, “Chad Vader.”
Be pro active. You get out of this business what you put into it.

Is it tough to be an actress in Northeast Wisconsin? There are numerous acting opportunities in our area. One only has to pick up the paper and/or search the internet for community and church theatrical productions.
Professionally, I work for agencies out of Green Bay and Milwaukee. If your goal is to make acting a career (or a supplement to your income) I suggest developing your acting skills.
An agency is more likely to recommend you to a client if you have a resume. From the starting gate you must be professional and do the job right the first time. Whether it’s voiceover work, TV commercials, industrial videos or print work I show up on time and, (if required) have everything memorized.
Act like a professional and you will get paid a professional wage for your effort.

Do you have a job outside of acting? After teaching full-time in a fifth/sixth grade classroom I came to the conclusion that my true calling is substitute teaching (for the Appleton Area School District).
I thoroughly respect and enjoy the variation substitute teaching offers. One day I can be playing the guitar and making up songs with third graders and the next day I might have 65 high school young adults in the gym.
That is similar to my acting career. One day I can be holding hands with Brett Favre for a video and the next day I might be flown to Texas for a TV commercial.
I am passionate about teaching and acting; my college degree and acting experience allow me to have the best of both worlds.

In efforts to draw attention to local actors, Women magazine focuses on the Women Who Inspire feature by getting to know those that are in the area. Today we feature Julie Martin:

Julie Martin
Appleton
Day job: Teacher, candy maker, mom

What was your first theater experience? I grew up in Chicago and had the opportunity to see many performances, but my first taste of being on stage was at the age of 5 when my sister, Donna, brought me to be in her high school play, “The Education of Hyman Kaplan.”
I was given a scoop of brown sugar on a cone every night to use as an ice cream cone in a crowd scene and just loved the singing and excitement of it all.

What was your most exciting theatre experience? One of my most exciting acting jobs was shooting a commercial for a printing company.
I had been doing voiceovers for their radio ads and they asked me to do their TV ad. I was the only actor and had numerous lines that had to be delivered rapidly.
They were changing shots from close ups to long shots throughout so I had to do my lines over and over.
Despite my nerves I did well and the commercial came out great.

Do you have a job outside of acting? Along with the joy of being the mother of three I have a variety of jobs as people in the arts often do.
I teach Music & Movement and Theatre classes to 3- to 5-year-olds for the Lawrence Academy of Music. I also enjoy my job at the YMCA and love working in the Wilmar Chocolates' candy kitchen during the Christmas season.
I am happiest and busiest when I am working at my favorite job, directing a show.

Our friends at Unity Hospice share this information on dealine with stress:

Each day, stress comes at us from many angles: job duties, the workplace, home and all points in between.

Stress is actually the normal physiological response of the body to a hostile environment.

The symptoms of stress are manifestations of this response.

What effect does stress have on your body and what clues can be seen in your daily life?

• Digestive and immune systems temporarily shut down as blood is diverted from less vital to more vital organs.

• Heart rate increases to supply more blood quickly.

• Blood pressure increases to supply the blood efficiently.

• Respiratory rate increases as the body tries to get more oxygen.

• Glycogen stores in the liver and muscle break down to get more glucose.

• Non-carbohydrate substances form more glucose.

Stress is now known to contribute to heart disease; hypertension; high blood pressure; strokes; irritable bowel syndrome; ulcers; diabetes; muscles and joint pain; miscarriage during pregnancy; allergies; alopecia; headache or poor concentration; sleep disturbance; irritability; decrease in memory, concentration and learning; and change in appetite.

Changes in attitude and lifestyle can help curb stress and the related effects stress has on the body. We will look next time at several tips for relieving stress in our lives.

Unity, leaders in hospice and palliative care, provides comfort care to people of all ages throughout Northeast Wisconsin.

Whether at a private home, nursing home or assisted living facility, Unity's skilled team of nurses, physicians, social workers, nursing assistants, chaplains, volunteers and grief counselors ensure the best quality of life for both the patient and family, based on the individual's needs and wishes. A not-for-profit health care provider, Unity is dedicated to ensuring that all individuals and the communities in which they reside have access to education, support and quality holistic care.

Women magazine highlights actors from the area in its Women Who Inspire feature. Today we present Bethany Gee:

Bethany Gee
Appleton
Day job: Private voice teacher at Appleton West High School.

What made you get into acting? I did two plays in high school and it definitely jump-started my curiosity.
I was raised as a musician, so I never really had much time for theater as I was busy performing in orchestras and choirs. I went on to study voice performance at Lawrence University.
During my senior year I took a scenes class with professor Fred Gaines. One particular morning I was supposed to have prepared a monologue, and because I was 21 years old and having boy problems, I put off my memorization to the last minute.
Somehow I pulled it off, but I walked away from the scene feeling like a complete hack.
At the end of class, my professor said he wanted to see me after class. I was sure I'd been caught as a fraud and was about to receive a severe admonishment for my lack of preparation.
Once I entered his office, he told me to have a seat and said, “I'm going to say something you're not going to want to hear.” I felt ill and cringed, anticipating the worst. Then he said the very last thing I expected: “You need to do more theater.”
It completely stopped me in my tracks. He went on and said something like, “I know the conservatory keeps you extremely busy and you probably don't have any time for much else, but you have a real talent. I think you should develop it further.”
In that moment, something deep inside me just clicked into place and said, "YES."
It was one of the most meaningful moments of my life. Ever since then theater has steadily been in my life, in one form or another.

What has been your most exciting acting experience? There are a few shows I've done that stand out. I played the role of Carla in "Nine" (Off The Wall Productions, Milwaukee), Janet in "The Rocky Horror Show" (Apple Jams, Fox Cities PAC), and my last show as an ensemble member in Metamorphoses (UW-Fox Valley).
"Nine" was exciting because I thought the music was sublime, the script was intense in feeling, and the other actresses were some of the greatest with whom I've ever shared a stage.
"The Rocky Horror Show" was exciting because the audience played such a huge part in the show. My adrenaline ran very high trying to keep my lines straight while knowing I could never fully anticipate what the audience was going to do.
And "Metamorphoses" meant a great deal to me because I love Greek mythology and the symbolism of water.
The connecting thread between these three shows is they all had incredible synergy between the cast, crew and the material. There was a unified sense of purpose. That's probably what I love most about theater, the act of teamwork.
When all the ingredients fall together so perfectly, magic happens. The whole cast and crew feel it, and it spills over into how the audience experiences the show.
The thrill of potentially experiencing that kind of cooperation and collaborative vision is what brings me back to theater over and over.

What advice do you have for aspiring actors? If it feels good, do it. You never know how theater can, and will, transform for life.
Throughout much of my earlier life I was very shy and introverted. Even simple everyday social interactions made me nervous and uncomfortable.
Then one day I met a few actors, and suddenly something inside me was happily dumbstruck. The best way I can describe it is up to that time in my life, I'd felt like an alien in this world.
Once I began acting and interacting with other actors, it felt like I'd stumbled upon an alien colony from the home planet. Suddenly I was home. My shyness dissolved. Life became easier and I began to feel more comfortable in my own skin.
Theater wasn't just a creative outlet for me; it was my saving grace. Who knows what it can do for you?

Is it tough to be an actress in Northeast Wisconsin? Compared to other places, no. There is a surprising amount of theater opportunity, considering our relatively small population.
What's more, it's a highly supportive community that welcomes newcomers. You don't necessarily find that in other cities. This is a great place to be.

Women magazine focuses on actors in its most recent issue through its Women Who Inspire feature. Today we share comments from Caitlin Diedrich:

Appleton native, living in Greenville
Day job: Student at UW-Fox Valley

What was your first acting experience? I started acting in 10th grade when a teacher urged me to try out for a comedy he was directing. I made the cut and starred as the comic relief.

What was your most recent role? I had several parts in UW-Fox Valley's production of Metamorphoses: First Laundress, Sailor, Lucina, Eurydice, Narrator, and Q.

What was your most exciting role? Playing the part of Inspector Jacques Clouseau/Peter Sellers in a high school production of “Hooray for Hollywood.”
The fact that I was obviously a woman playing a man's role made that scene particularly hilarious and enjoyable to perform.

What is your advice for aspiring actors? To try out for anything that sparks your interest and expect the unexpected.
Every part I have been cast for is a part I never thought I would receive, and it has been a fantastic experience every time developing myself into a new character.

Coach Connie Tilley of St. Norbert College is featured in this month's Women magazine. Here's a snippet of her comments, on subjects ranging from fashion to hoops:

What’s your clothing style? I’m most comfortable in sweats and a sweatshirt, of course we can’t wear those during games. I like to dress up but I haven’t found shoes that are comfortable.
One of the things I like about being around younger people is that they let me know when I’m not stylin.’ They’ll give me a lot of advice.
What did you major in in college?
I was a physical education major to start with, but I didn’t really want to do that so I went into the health field, my master’s is in public health administration. With a double major I could go into teaching health or physical education, but if I wasn’t doing this I wanted to work in a public health environment, whether it be a lab or public safety position.
We didn’t have it then, but if they did I think I would have gone into forensics.
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
Probably, going to the Final Four (in the 1984-85 season). It happened pretty young in my career. We’ve also been to the Sweet 16 four times. I hope before I retire I will have that opportunity again.
When I look back at my career, the one thing I always look to is my relationships I’ve had with my kids and how they’ve turned out. How many of the kids that played basketball went into coaching. I’m very proud of that, that they are very successful and happy in their lives.
I get so much satisfaction from seeing them year after year. Now some of them are bringing their daughters here to St. Norbert to look at it.
Who’s the best player you’ve ever coached?
The best player I’ve ever coached is Amy Proctor. She was a first team All-American, she was All-Tournament for our Final Four team, and is now a coach at Preble High School.

This month's Women magazine features area actors in our Women Who Inspire feature. We'll be featuring the women on our blog each day as well, beginning with Susan Rabideau of Appleton:

Susan Rabideau
Appleton
Day job: Director of theater at the UW-Fox Valley

What has been your most exciting acting experience? “How I Learned to Drive.” It scared me but turned out beautifully.

What was your most recent role? Bananas in “The House of Blue Leaves.”
If you could change one thing about acting, what would it be? I’d have a photographic memory and know every single line after the read through.

What advice do you have for aspiring actors? It’s hard. You need a tough skin. In a major market expect 100 rejections for every role.
I always tell my students if you have a passion for anything else, do that instead, but if it is your blood you’ll have no choice.

What is your goal? To love 100 percent of my life.

Gina Nytes, Kaukauna branch manager for Citizens Bank, offers tips on boosting your savings:

Living paycheck to paycheck and paying off debt can limit what's saved.

Still, making small changes to daily expenditures can result in big savings. With the New Year, if you haven’t already, you are probably thinking about your 2010 resolutions. Why not focus on resolutions that aren’t just good ideas, but will also save you money? Here are some resolutions that can save you some green in 2010 and ultimately increase your saving goals.

-- Keep a budget, even if it’s only for a week. It takes a lot of willpower to stick to a strict budget, but could you do it for a week?

If you track your expenses for just one week, you’ll have an idea of how you spend your money. And, you might find a quick way to save. Many people, for example, are surprised how much they spend on small things like that gourmet coffee every morning. Work on extending that budget into a month and then longer.

-- Enroll in your employer’s flexible healthcare spending plan. If you put a set amount of money into the plan, you can pay expenses like co-pays, prescription costs, over the counter medications and more, with pre-tax dollars.

-- Become a coupon clipper. Put in the time and effort to clip coupons from the Sunday paper, search online or pick up a coupon flyer when you go to the store.

-- Eat out less. Restaurants are convenient, but they cost you money. Try to limit eating out and instead invest some time in learning how to cook quick and easy meals at home.

-- Review your insurance policies. Now is a great time to look at your homeowners, auto and life insurance policies to see if you need to make any changes to ensure sure you are adequately covered.

-- Get started on making your home more energy-efficient. Take time to start a few small projects that will benefit you in the long run. You could seal up your doors and windows with new weather-stripping, add more insulation to your attic or something as simple as switching out your old light bulbs for compact fluorescent bulbs. Be sure to turn off lights and unplug appliances.

With just a few small sacrifices and some smart money choices you can make 2010 the year you increase your savings.